On cars up to and including the 1965 model year, the seal runs on a separate spacer ring that also serves as a support for the rear bearing. Volkswagen later adapted this system by incorporating this ring into the shaft journal. If the ring is damaged, there is no other option than to replace the entire shaft journal.
The demand for complete axle journals for cars up to model year 1965 is remarkably lower than for the following years, the fixed distance bushing is one of the reasons for this.
If there is a slight rust formation on the tread before the retaining ring, it is important to sand it down with, for example, Scotch Bright before mounting the brake drum with the retaining ring. If there are rust pits that have not disappeared after sanding, you will need to replace the spacer, and the same is true if there is other damage.
Preventive replacement of the bearings and retainer is not necessary, but is recommended for the age of the car.
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